Could Preoccupation With Failure Lead Us to Fail?
Abstract
Preoccupation with failure is a foundational component of high reliability organizations. However, this can work in opposition to a simultaneous and arguably conflicting priority, the promotion of self-efficacy, which is linked to healthcare worker satisfaction, performance and wellness. This commentary posits that focusing on failures can undermine self-efficacy, which may lead to decreased task performance. This results in today's healthcare quality and safety leaders facing a catch-22 and a preoccupation with failure-wellness paradox. We propose that institutional quality improvement initiatives, when well-structured with appropriate training and focused resources, can serve as a buffer between the preoccupation with failure and a confident, engaged, and productive workforce.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Workplace Health and Well-being
Patient Safety and Medication Errors
Nursing education and management
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Quality Management in Health Care
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 35
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 206–208
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN